The defence and security cooperation network Defence Innovation Network Finland (DEFINE) is expanding into a nationwide network. Enter Espoo partnered up with DEFINE in October 2025. Now, with funding from Sitra, four Finnish cities and two universities of applied sciences are joining the network operated by the City of Riihimäki.
The aim of the expansion is to open doors to new investments, exports, and jobs in the rapidly growing defence and security sector. Each region contributes its own strengths to the network, including artificial intelligence solutions, cybersecurity or border security innovations. For example, the Joensuu region hosts a drone testing area where new drone solutions developed in Espoo can be tested in real-world conditions.
“The expansion of this operating model is a significant step for Finland in strengthening defence and security innovation and turning it into new business, exports, investments and jobs – and above all, bringing economic growth for the entire country,” says Laura Halenius, a senior lead at Sitra.
Funding the expansion is part of Sitra’s Growth from Critical Technologies project that aims to strengthen foresight and innovation capabilities in the technology sector and create conditions for economic growth. The City of Riihimäki serves as the main implementing partner for the expansion. Riihimäki also coordinates the international activities of the network, including its cooperation with NATO.
“Our goal is to build DEFINE into an internationally significant defence innovation ecosystem that brings together top expertise from Finland and around the world,” says Jouni Eho, the Mayor of Riihimäki.
Learn more about the network on DEFINE website.
DEFINE partners
- City of Riihimäki
- Enter Espoo (Defence Tech Hub)
- City of Forssa
- City of Joensuu
- City of Oulu
- City of Hämeenlinna
- Häme University of Applied Sciences, HAMK
- Metropolia University of Applied Sciences
